The Lisboan's preference for the private motor vehicle (despite an expanding and improved public transport system) continues to create obstacles for the city´s pedestrians, as illustrated by the five attached photographs taken in different parts of Lisbon. The problems are compounded by a city council that is unable to effectively enforce parking restrictions and provide safe access for the walking public. Frustrated, pedestrians are often forced to walk on the roads while cars are parked haphazardly on pavements. This not only imperils lives, but adds to the city's growing congestion. Furthermore, statistics point to a worrying reality for those who choose to walk on streets where the motor vehicle still reigns: in the first four months of 2009, 101 pedestrians were hit by road vehicles whilst on designated pedestrian crossings in the city, and each year there are a number of fatalities.



